THE proposed expansion of the women’s Santos Cup rugby league competition will be decided closer to the season next year or in 2028, PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) chief operating officer Tony Archer has said.

He said while the Santos Cup is on track for further growth, any increase in the number of teams would depend on the readiness of the playing base. Part of the strategy is to introduce a 10-team Under-19 women’s competition next year.

“The decision on the expansion, whether in 2027 or 2028, will be made closer to the competition,” Archer told The National. Significant development has already taken place with this year’s competition extended to give players more game time and a longer playing season.

“Match duration has increased from 60 to 70 minutes, similar to established women’s competitions including NRLW, BMD and Harvey Norman,” he said.

Archer said the focus now was to maintain that progress and extend the competition. “Next year, it’ll be a longer competition.”

A key part of the development strategy would be the introduction of a 10-team Under-19 women’s competition, with teams operating under their respective club banners from next year.

Archer said the proposed Under-19 competition would build from the previous academy concept that has provided pathways for several players. This would give more young women the chance to develop within a structured club environment before moving into the Santos Cup.

“Strengthening this pathway will help ensure future expansion is supported by a sufficient pool of capable players. This strategy will also maintain the standard of competition,” he said.